Eventually, a home’s roof will need repairs because of wind, moisture, or normal wear and tear. At some point, homeowners will have to consider replacing the entire roof. By choosing the right roofing materials, you can really increase the curb appeal and even increase the overall value of your home.
When you consider different roofing options, you should probably start by making a few basic decisions:
- Does the home need a certain ”look”? Some homes are built in a certain style, like Spanish or mediterranean, that needs a tile roof in the traditional style.
- Will my insurance company give discounts for using certain materials? Some insurance companies give discounts if certain materials are used, such as Class A Fire Rated shingles.
- Which materials are better suited to my area. Some materials fare better in more extreme climates, while others are relatively universal. Even in Washington state, we have high wind areas.
- Which materials meet local safety codes?
- What are the total costs, lifespan and warranties for available material? Some roofing materials may require additional framing to support heavier weight, require special installation, or require specific maintenance issues to consider.
Asphalt / asphalt fiberglass shingles
Most homes use asphalt fiberglass shingles because they work with so many home styles. They are made using asphalt with fiberglass or cellulose embedded in the shingle to provide additional strength and prevent tearing. These shingles are so popular because they are durable, affordable, installed easily, and come in a variety of color options. While these shingles aren’t very insulating, they will last up to 50 years, depending on the grade of shingle and are properly maintained.
Wood shingles and shakes
The go-to roofing choice for hundreds of years has been wood shingles or shakes made from various evergreen woods. Many homeowners like the appearance of wood shingles or shakes, because they weather to an attractive shade of gray. Wood shakes are hand cut and rougher-looking than wood shingles, which are usually cut by machine. However, they have issues. If you live in a fire prone area where wood shingles are allowed, look for Class A fire-rated roofing products. Wood shingles also are prone to molding, rotting, or splitting especially in wetter climates. Wood shingles and shake roofs are beautiful, but expect a lot more maintenance compared to an asphalt roof.
Masonry roofing
Masonry, clay or concrete tiles, are usually associate with mediterranean or spanish style homes. But, they can also be used for other styles. Tiles are designed to overlap or interlock with the tiles adjacent to them. These tiles are best suited for warmer, drier climates. They are subject to damage in areas that have heavy or frequent rains or areas that have freezing temperatures.
Metal roofing
Metal roofing includes factory formed and finished roofing panels that are cut and formed at the construction site. Not all metal roofs have a standing seam style, metal roofs can also be designed to be shingle look-a-likes. Most metal roofs can be found on houses, farms, and commercial buildings. They are not very suitable for complex or curved roofs. They can also be installed over an older roof without removing the older roofing material.
Flat or low slope roofing
Most commonly, flat or low sloped roofs are found on both residential and commercial buildings. The most common flat or low slope roofing materials are single-membrane systems like EPDM or rubber roofing, thermo-polyolefin (TPO) roofing and PVC roofing. This coats the roof with a continuous layer of foam insulation that can also serve as the finished roof surface when a protective coating is applied over the foam. Because flat and low slope roofs are inherently prone to leaking, only professional and experienced roofing contractors should repair, replace or install a flat or low slope roof.
Solar shingles & solar roofing
Solar shingles and solar roofing panels are becoming increasingly popular. These new “thin-film” photovoltaic technology are sometimes referred to as “building-integrated photovoltaics,” or BIPV. Solar shingles are designed in the standard size and shape of asphalt shingles so that they can be unobtrusively integrated into an asphalt shingle roof. However, Solar shingles are less efficient that bolt-on modules.
When your home is ready for a new roof, repairs, or maintenance, you need a reliable, dependable roof repair company. You count on you roofing contractor to keep your home safe and dry. Guardian Roofing is committed to providing top-quality service, professionalism and workmanship. If you are looking for a roof repair contractor please call us today at 877-926-9966 or complete our online service request form.
